What Is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin, tightens weakened abdominal muscles, and reshapes the midsection. It is often performed after pregnancy or weight loss, when skin laxity and muscle separation cannot be corrected through exercise alone.
In Dubai, the procedure is offered by Dr Parviz Sadigh, a UK-trained plastic surgery consultant with international expertise in both aesthetic and reconstructive body surgery. Abdominoplasty not only restores physical contour, but can also improve posture, comfort, and long-term body confidence.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-Surgery Consultation
Before undergoing abdominoplasty, every patient attends a detailed consultation with Dr Parviz Sadigh at his Dubai clinic. During this visit, your medical history, current health, and treatment goals are assessed to determine whether a tummy tuck is suitable for you. Dr Sadigh will examine areas of excess skin and muscle laxity, explain the different surgical options, and help you understand what kind of results are achievable based on your body type. Photographs may be taken for surgical planning. This consultation also includes a full discussion of anaesthesia, surgical risks, scar placement, and the expected recovery process. Patients are encouraged to ask questions and take time to consider their decision with full clarity and confidence.
The Surgical Procedure
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Procedure Name | Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) |
| Performed By | Dr Parviz Sadigh – UK-trained Plastic Surgery Consultant |
| Location | Dubai – Licensed Medical Facility |
| Anaesthesia | General anaesthetic |
| Surgical Time | Typically 2 to 3.5 hours |
| Incision Placement | Low horizontal line across the lower abdomen (just above the pubic area) |
| Muscle Repair | Yes – if diastasis recti (muscle separation) is present |
| Skin Removal | Excess skin and fat removed; belly button repositioned if needed |
| Hospital Stay | Usually day case or one overnight stay, depending on case complexity |
| Stitch Type | Dissolvable, internal sutures; no external stitches to remove |
| Garment | Compression garment worn for 4–6 weeks |
| Liposuction | May be combined if appropriate |
Recovery Timeline
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1–3 | Swelling, tightness, and discomfort. Medication provided. Light movement encouraged. |
| Week 1 | Clinic review. Most patients walk upright with slight bend. No heavy lifting. |
| Week 2 | Sutures are dissolving. Bruising begins to fade. Gradual return to desk work possible. |
| Weeks 3–4 | Continued reduction in swelling. Compression garment still worn. Light activity resumed. |
| Weeks 5–6 | Majority of swelling resolves. Exercise may resume under guidance. |
| Week 8+ | Final results begin to show. Scar care and ongoing follow-up continue as advised. |
What to Prepare Before Surgery
Arrange 1–2 weeks off work, especially if your job is physically demanding
Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery to support healing
Prepare loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on and take off
Plan help at home for the first few days (especially if you have children)
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications, herbal supplements, and blood thinners before surgery (as advised)
Have your compression garment and post-op supplies ready in advance
Ensure transport is arranged, as you will not be able to drive home
Who Benefits from a Tummy Tuck?
Ideal candidates may include:
Individuals with a small amount of loose skin below the belly button
Women with lower abdominal changes following pregnancy or C-section
Patients with minimal to no muscle separation (diastasis recti)
Those close to their ideal weight with localised fat or skin laxity
People seeking a faster recovery and smaller scar than a full tummy tuck
Non-smokers in good general health, with realistic expectations
Types of Abdominoplasty Procedures
Full Abdominoplasty
This is the most common approach. It removes excess skin from above and below the belly button, tightens the abdominal muscles, and repositions the navel for a natural look. Often recommended for patients after pregnancy or major weight loss.
Mini Abdominoplasty
A less invasive option for those with mild skin laxity below the navel only. It involves a shorter scar and quicker recovery, without repositioning the belly button. Best for lean patients with localised lower abdominal concerns.
Extended Abdominoplasty
This is suited for patients with excess skin that extends around the sides or lower back, such as after significant weight loss. The incision is longer and addresses the flanks, improving waistline contour and balance.
Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty
Used in more complex cases, especially after bariatric surgery. It removes vertical and horizontal excess skin, resulting in a T-shaped scar. Reserved for patients needing dramatic reshaping of the midsection.
Muscle Repair
In many cases, weakened or separated abdominal muscles are repaired as part of the procedure. This restores core strength and helps flatten the midsection – often essential post-pregnancy.
Why Choose Dr Parviz Sadigh?
Dr Parviz Sadigh is a UK board-certified Consultant Plastic Surgeon with over 15 years of experience in complex body and reconstructive surgery. Having trained in London and completed international fellowships across Asia and the Middle East, he brings a level of precision and surgical planning that reflects global standards. He is fully licensed in Dubai and offers discreet, personalised care in a safe, regulated environment.
Patients value his ability to balance aesthetic goals with functional outcomes – whether restoring confidence after pregnancy, weight loss, or addressing long-term body concerns. Every abdominoplasty is approached with clear communication, tailored planning, and a commitment to natural results.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do the results of abdominoplasty last?
With stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, the results of abdominoplasty can last for many years. The tightened abdominal muscles and removed skin do not return, although natural ageing continues. Dr Parviz Sadigh advises patients in Dubai to maintain a consistent fitness and diet routine post-surgery for best long-term outcomes.
Is a tummy tuck painful?
Most patients describe discomfort rather than sharp pain, particularly in the first few days after surgery. You may feel tightness or pressure in the lower abdomen, especially if muscle repair is involved. Pain is well controlled with prescribed medication, and most patients find the recovery manageable when supported by proper rest and guidance.
What are the risks of abdominoplasty?
As with all surgery, risks include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, and temporary numbness. Specific to abdominoplasty, there’s a small risk of fluid buildup (seroma), visible scarring, or asymmetry. When performed by a board-certified consultant like Dr Sadigh in a regulated Dubai setting, the procedure carries a low complication rate – and risks are carefully assessed during your consultation.
How long is the recovery period?
Recovery varies by individual, but most patients return to light activities after 2 weeks and resume normal routines within 4 to 6 weeks. Full internal healing may take several months. Compression garments are usually worn during the first month, and results continue to refine as swelling gradually subsides.
How should I prepare for surgery?
Dr Sadigh will guide you through a full pre-operative checklist. This typically includes stopping certain medications, arranging time off work, staying well-hydrated, and quitting smoking well in advance. It’s also important to plan for post-op help at home and prepare any recovery items (such as a compression garment or support pillow) ahead of time.
Will I have visible scars after abdominoplasty?
Yes – all tummy tucks involve a scar, usually placed low across the bikini line so it can be hidden under clothing. In full abdominoplasty, a second small scar around the belly button is also common. Dr Sadigh uses careful techniques to minimise tension and promote thin, well-healing scars, which typically fade significantly over time.
What kind of surgeon performs abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty should be carried out by a specialist plastic surgeon with training in both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr Parviz Sadigh is a UK board-certified Consultant Plastic Surgeon with expertise in complex body contouring and international experience across Dubai, London, and Asia. His training ensures both the safety and aesthetic precision required for high-quality outcomes.
